Try a tapa or two in Marbella.
If you like tasting samples of delicious cuisine then the Spanish custom of eating tapas is for you. So keen are Spaniards on the tasty morsels—usually bite sized portions to accompany drinks—that most bars and taverns serve a selection of these savoury delicacies. Now Spain’s tourism body, Turespaña, has decided it’s time to introduce the concept to a global audience, declaring that the third Thursday in June will henceforth be World Tapas Day. Throughout Spain and further afield events and promotions will be arranged to promote tapas as a way of enjoying food without having to have a full-blown meal. World Tapas Day is a tasty event A Turespaña statement summed up the idea neatly: “Tapas is a symbol of Spain and is considered deserving of being the star of its own World Day because it is representative of our cuisine in miniature, is the focus of our most innovative chefs and because tapas is a word that is recognised in all major languages.” Tapas are acknowledged to be an Andalusian invention and as such the bars and restaurants of the region are renowned for their selection of what could be called the ‘original’ finger food. From humble—and traditional—slices of ham on bread, meatballs and seafood to modern creations from Michelin starred chefs, the choice is enormous and always worth a try to find new favourites. Marbella of course follows this Andalusian tradition—just pop into any bar and you are almost bound to be offered one of these treats. Some of our favourites places to try a tapa or two include Bar El Estrecho, which is tucked away in an alley off Calle de San Lazáro in the Old Town. It has been serving tapas, as well as heartier meals since 1956 and is ever popular with the local crowd. Also in the old town is Arco, this time on Calle Peral. It has an excellent reputation—which we can vouch for—and offers food with a modern twist. For a different take on the theme try La Taberna del Pintxo on Avenida Miguel Cano. Strictly speaking Pintxos aren’t tapas—they are tasty treats skewered onto a slice of bread, originating from the Basque country. But they too have been embraced in Andalucía and fit in neatly with the local tradition. So whatever you do on Thursday, June 16th, why not celebrate World Tapas Day by Visiting Marbella and trying some of these tasty snacks for yourself—you won’t be disappointed!
